IGCSE curriculum schools in Dubai, UAE are becoming increasingly popular among parents and students. But finding affordable options can be difficult in a place like Dubai. That is precisely why we have compiled a list of affordable IGCSE schools in Dubai 2024 that won’t break your bank and still deliver high-quality education! Read on below to find out.

The KHDA rankings

KHDA is a regulatory authority of the Government of Dubai that oversees the private education sector. It is equivalent to the Ministry of Education in other countries. Every year, it publishes rankings of affordable IGCSE schools in Dubai which you can find here.

For your convenience, we have compiled a list of 10 best affordable IGCSE schools in Dubai below:

1. Al Diyafah High School
2. Al Salam Community School
3. Al Salam Private School
4. Apple International School
5. Cambridge International School Dubai
6. Dubai Gem Private School
7. GEMS Founders School Dubai
8. MSB (Al Ameen) School
9. The Westminster School
10. Winchester School Jebel Ali

Let's dive into further details on why these are the top 10 affordable IGCSE schools in Dubai 2024!

10. Winchester School Jebel Ali

Winchester School Jebel Ali stands out as a top choice for IGCSE education because they have earned a reputation for providing high-quality education at an affordable price. As part of GEMS Education, their British curriculum is enriched by GEMS' core concepts of Excellence, Always Learning, One Team, and Care, fostering a holistic approach to learning that goes beyond memorization. They offer a wide range of extracurricular activities and follow a holistic approach to education, ensuring students' academic, social, and emotional well-being.

With experienced teachers, outstanding facilities, and a track record of achievements, including a 'VERY GOOD rating' from KHDA in 2022-2023, The Winchester School, Jebel Ali, is dedicated to empowering students for future success through quality education and innovative learning experiences. It also prides itself on an admission policy that does not discriminate against any child or family.  All children are welcome to apply to The Winchester School, regardless of nationality, ethnicity or religion.

Average Fee: AED 21,000 

Actual Fee 2023-2024: AED 14,237 - 31,760

Location: Jebel Ali

Website: https://www.thewinchesterschool.com/

*Entry Placement Test is taken

Admission Process:

1. Complete the online Application form.
2. To place the child on the waiting list, pay AED 525/-. (Application Fee)
   *Note: This is not deductible and non-refundable if the school has not declined the application and is valid only for a year.
3. Upload all mandatory admission documents online
4. Meet and greet with a member of the Leadership and Medical team.
5. When an offer of a seat in the school is extended, an admission fee which is 10% of the total fees of that year group is needed to secure the seat, payable by cash or credit card.

9. The Westminster School

The Westminster School in Dubai stands out as an exceptional choice for students seeking an international education, focusing on preparing them for the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Level Qualifications and A Level Qualifications from prestigious UK universities like Cambridge and London. Their motto "Empowering Learners, Creating the Future" reflects their commitment to fostering knowledge appreciation and readiness for a rapidly changing society. With separate facilities for boys and girls from Year 7 onwards, they provide a secure and supportive environment that encourages learning and excellence.

With students from over 70 nationalities, they celebrate diversity and offer a culturally rich environment that enhances students' understanding of the world. The Westminster School is also recognized for academic outcomes, outstanding personal and social development, quality teaching, curriculum adaptations, and provision for health, safety, care, and support by KHDA in 2022-2023.

Average Fee: AED 28,000

Actual Fee 2023-2024: AED 19,398 - 36,570

Location: Dubailand

Website: https://www.gemsws-ghusais.com/ 

*Entrance Assessment is taken

Admission Process:

1. Complete and submit the online Application form to receive the Opportunity Number
   *Note: To know your child's eligibility, please refer to the Age Placement Guide.
2. Upload all mandatory admission documents online
3. Once you have submitted the necessary information, a member of our enrolment team will get in touch with you to proceed with your child's enrolment.
4. A student’s application will pass through different stages facilitated by effective communication between parents and Westminster School’s Admission team
   *Note: The online enquiry does not automatically guarantee school admission. 
5. New students must settle the registration and admission fee and the relevant term’s tuition fee, before enrolling for the student to start classes.

8. MSB (Al Ameen) School

MSB Private School (Dubai) embarked on its educational journey in 1985, aiming to blend secular education with a Shari’ah perspective. Over the years, MSB has flourished into a distinguished institution with two campuses, known for its exceptional management, dedicated teachers, and supportive staff, creating a nurturing environment for students.

Aligned with the British National Curriculum and affiliated with Cambridge University for the IGCSE syllabus, MSB (Dubai) was recognized as 'VERY GOOD' by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority, Dubai - KHDA in 2022-2023. It offers classes up to year 12, operating under the umbrella of MSB with branches in 22 cities worldwide. Beyond academic excellence, MSB emphasizes holistic development by integrating sports, technology, and Islamic studies while instilling strong values and principles in each child.

Average Fee: AED 14,000

Actual Fee 2023-2024: AED 11,545 - 27,045

Location: Al Nadha

Website: https://msbdubai.com/ 

*Entry Placement Test is taken

Admission Process:

1. The student has to be registered along with the submission of the required paperwork
2. Students entering Years 1 to 13 must complete a placement test (English & Math)
3. Entrance test dates and portions are provided to parents when the admission form is submitted
   *Note: Registration forms can be obtained from the school administration office. Parents can contact the school administration office for further enquiries.

7. GEMS Founders School Dubai

GEMS Founders School, Dubai (GFS) stands out as a transformative force in the UAE's educational landscape, providing unparalleled value for money since its record-breaking opening in 2016. With a remarkable enrollment of over 1800 students initially and steadily growing to reach full capacity, GFS has become a beacon of educational excellence.

Offering both the National Curriculum for England and UAE Ministry of Education curricula, GFS ensures a comprehensive and enriching learning experience for its diverse student body representing over 100 nationalities. The school's commitment to cultural diversity is evident in its positive learning environment that fosters language proficiency, cultural understanding, and mutual respect among students and staff.

GFS has consistently achieved a "GOOD" rating in DSIB KHDA in 2022-2023 inspections with outstanding features, further affirming its dedication to quality education. As a British Schools Overseas (BSO) accredited institution, GFS also provides professional development opportunities for teachers through esteemed programs like NQT, QTS, and iPGCE offered by the TES Institute. GEMS Founders School, Dubai is not just a school but a platform for individuals to make a lasting impact and contribute to shaping the future of education.

Average Fee: AED 29,500

Actual Fee 2023-2024: AED 23,129 - 34,693

Location: Al Barsha

Website: https://www.gemsfoundersschool-dubai.com/en 

*Entrance Assessment Test is taken

Admission Process:

1. Complete the online Application form. Once completed, you will receive an acknowledgement with an online reference number.
2. Application Fee of AED 525/- has to be paid online or by visiting the school to initiate registration.
   *Note: This is not deductible and non-refundable if the school has not declined the application and is valid only for a year.
3. Upload all mandatory admission documents online
   *Note: Payment of the Application fee does not guarantee your child a place at the school. Your application will only be completed once we have received all documentation and the required payment.
4. The Academic team will review the child's reports and schedule an assessment/interview (informed via email notification or by phone)
5. Registrar will be sending offer letters to successful applicants, subject to seat availability.
6. Payment of the Registration deposit which is 10% of the total tuition fees (non-refundable, non-transferable) in cash or through credit card has to be made. (It is deductible from the tuition fees for the academic year)
7. After the above process, the student is officially enrolled. The tuition fee is payable at the beginning of each term and is payable in 3 terms.
   *Note: If a seat is unavailable, your child’s application will be placed on a waitlist upon successful assessment until a seat becomes available.

6. Dubai Gem Private School

From its humble beginnings as the Dubai Gem Crèche and Nursery in 1973, Dubai Gem Private School has evolved into a distinguished institution offering the UK National Curriculum. They prioritize creating a warm and caring environment where every member of their community is valued, respected, and provided with opportunities for growth and skill enhancement and are recognized as 'GOOD' by KHDA in 2022-2023. Inspired by the visionary leaders of the UAE, they are committed to inclusivity, guided by the words of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Their motto, 'Strive for Excellence,' encapsulates their vision to be an exemplary 21st-century learning community, empowering students to excel in a complex, interconnected world while upholding their core values of dignity and integrity, generosity of spirit, pursuit of excellence, and sincerity and commitment. Through their challenging and inclusive learning environment, they aim to develop resilient, adaptable, and socially responsible individuals who are equipped for lifelong learning and personal fulfilment.

Average Fee: AED 17,000

Actual Fee 2023-2024: AED 12,874 - 26,432

Location: Oud Metha

Website: https://dubaigem.ae/ 

*Entry Placement Test is taken

Admission Process:

1. Complete the online Application form.
2. Once completed, you will receive an acknowledgement with an online reference number.
3. Application Fee of AED 525/- has to be paid online or by visiting the school to initiate registration.
   *Note: This is not deductible and non-refundable if the school has not declined the application and is valid only for a year.
4. Upload all mandatory admission documents online
   *Note: Payment of the Application fee does not guarantee your child a place at the school. Your application will only be completed once we have received all documentation and the required payment.
5. The Academic team will review the child's reports and schedule an assessment/interview (informed via email notification or by phone)
6. Registrar will be sending offer letters to successful applicants, subject to seat availability.
7. Payment of the Registration deposit which is 10% of the total tuition fees (non-refundable, non-transferable) in cash or through a credit card has to be made. (It is deductible from the tuition fees for the academic year)
8. After the above process, the student is officially enrolled. The tuition fee is payable at the beginning of each term and in 3 terms.
   *Note: If a seat is unavailable, your child’s application will be placed on a waitlist upon successful assessment until a seat becomes available.

5. Cambridge International School Dubai

Discover the unmatched synergy of the academically acclaimed UK curriculum and the unparalleled excellence of GEMS Education at Cambridge International School, Dubai. Its expansive campus houses two sections: Primary (Kindergarten to Year 6) and Secondary School (Year 7 to Year 13), offering outstanding teaching, diverse opportunities, and excellent facilities that rank us among the top schools in the city.

Their mission is to provide comprehensive preparation for the modern world, setting high expectations for every student and fostering personal pride in achievements through diligence. While academic excellence remains paramount, they also prioritize the development of social, sporting, and artistic skills through a blend of curricular and extracurricular activities. Their track record of success in academics and extracurriculars is a testament to the dedication of their staff and the emphasis they place on continuous training and an up-to-date study program which is also recognized as 'GOOD' by KHDA in 2022-2023.

Experience a unique international education at Cambridge International School, where students embrace diversity, gain a world-centered perspective, and develop their full potential academically, socially, and personally. 

Average Fee: AED 29,000 

Actual Fee 2023-2024: AED 22,660 - 35,020

Location: Al Twar

Website: https://www.gemscis-dubai.com/

*Entrance Assessment Test is taken

Admission Process:

1. Complete the online Application form to generate a student enquiry ID number.
2. To place the child on the waiting list, pay AED 525/-. (Application Fee)
   *Note: This is not deductible and non-refundable if the school has not declined the application and is valid only for a year.
3. Upload all mandatory admission documents online or visit the school with the documents and student enquiry ID number.
4. Once registered the applicant will be placed on the waiting list and called for an assessment, depending on space availability. 
5. All admissions will be confirmed subject to the child's assessment results.
   
   

4. Apple International School

The Apple International School, committed to unlocking the full potential of every student through tailored teaching approaches, is renowned as one of the best schools in Dubai. They prioritize inclusive education practices by avoiding ability-based labels and embracing universal design strategies such as whole-class differentiation. Their dedication to inclusivity extends to ensuring seamless integration for students of determination into the learning community, aligning with the Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework since 2017.

Their compassionate and committed staff across all levels offer a plethora of value-based learning activities and healthy competition to instil confidence, prepare students for future challenges, and shape them into responsible global citizens. Their philosophy revolves around preparing students not just for school but for life itself, ensuring physical and emotional safety, nurturing self-esteem, confidence, creative expression, and individual talents, and promoting responsibility, effective communication, cooperation, respect, and celebration of differences. This philosophy is demonstrated as they are recognized as 'GOOD' by KHDA in the 2022-2023 report.

Average Fee: AED 11,000

Actual Fee 2023-2024: AED 6465 - 18,771

Location: Al Qusais

Website: https://apple.sch.ae/

*Entry Placement Test is taken

Admission Process:

1. Complete the online Application form.
2. To place the child on the waiting list, pay AED 525/-. (Application Fee)
   *Note: This is not deductible and non-refundable if the school has not declined the application and is valid only for a year.
3. Upload all mandatory admission documents online
4. The child will be invited by the School Admission team for an Interview (applicable for FS to Year 8) and Assessment & Interview (applicable for Year 9 onwards via email notification or phone.
5. Admission Officer will be sending confirmation letters to successful applicants, subject to seat availability.
   *Note: After the student has been offered a place and parents have accepted the offer, an admission fee of AED 500/- along with a Seat confirmation fee of 10% of the Tuition fee is payable either in cash or through credit card. (Non-refundable and is deductible from the tuition fees for the academic year)

3. Al Salam Private School

Al Salam Private School has a legacy of over 30 years, embodying an ethos of inclusivity and value-based education accessible to families across Dubai. They take pride in reflecting the UAE's legacy and ambition through our commitment to providing a holistic and inclusive learning environment that inspires academic and personal excellence.

Their vision is to foster a balanced and student-centered curriculum that caters to individual learning needs, stimulating intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and physical development within a safe, caring, and compassionate environment as also identified by KHDA in the 2022-2023 report.

Al Salam is dedicated to providing equal rights and opportunities for students with SEND, ensuring their inclusion in quality learning experiences. Their track record speaks volumes, being ranked among Dubai's highest-performing British schools, led by experienced and effective leadership rooted in values and a strong belief in the uniqueness of each child. Their diverse community of students and teachers enriches the educational experience at Al Salam Private School, making us a cherished institution dedicated to the growth and success of every individual.

Average Fee: AED 19, 500

Actual Fee 2023-2024: AED 17,096 - 23,773

Location: Al Nadha

Website: https://alsalamschool.ae/

*Entrance Assessment Test is taken

Admission Process:

1. Submit the online Application form to receive a reference number.
2. Submit or upload all pre-requisite admission documents online
   *Note: Payment of the Application fee does not guarantee your child a place at the school. Your application will only be completed once we have received all documentation and the required payment.
3. To place the child on the waiting list, pay AED 525/-. (Application Fee)
   *Note: This is not deductible and non-refundable if the school has not declined the application and is valid only for a year.
4. Once all the relevant documents have been received and evaluated, students will be invited in for an entry assessment by phone or via email.
   *Note: Assessment fee of AED 500/- (non-refundable and non-adjustable) which is to be paid at the school on the day of the scheduled assessment.
5. Confirmation on whether an offer for your child can take place within 5 working days once the education team has conducted a full review of the assessment.  We may ask for additional supporting documentation to support the admission.
6. The Admissions department will send out offer letters to successful applicants.
   *Note: A request for a formal meeting with the parent and child can be made before completing the admission process.

7. If a seat is unavailable, your child’s application will be placed on a waiting list until a seat becomes available.

2. Al Salam Community School

At Al Salam, the goal is to foster an inspiring learning community driven by discovery, change readiness, and a reputation for excellence. They envision their ASCS graduates as ambitious, well-rounded individuals deeply rooted in future-ready skills, moral values, and social responsibility. Their approach is designed to cultivate transformational learning experiences beyond knowledge acquisition, strengthening character, behaviour, and global perspective.

They prioritize high achievement and Islamic values, aiming for students who are not just contributors but also conscious citizens. Their approach strikes a balance between the rigours of the British curriculum, rich extracurricular activities, and the cherished heritage and traditions of the UAE.

At Al Salam, students learn to appreciate abundance, cooperation, and synergy, becoming agents of change guided by faith and purpose as identified through the KHDA in the 2022-2023 report with a 'GOOD' rating. Al Salam is committed to nurturing holistic growth and empowering students to create a better world through their learning journey.

Average Fee: AED 31,000 

Actual Fee 2023-2024: AED 22,660 - 39,140

Location: Al Twar

Website: https://www.alsalamcommunity.ae/

*Entry Placement Test is taken

Admission Process:

1. Complete the online Application form.
2. Submit or upload all pre-requisite admission documents online
   *Note: Payment of the Application fee does not guarantee your child a place at the school. Your application will only be completed once we have received all documentation and the required payment.
3. To place the child on the waiting list, pay AED 525/-. (Application Fee)
   *Note: This is not deductible and non-refundable if the school has not declined the application and is valid only for a year.
4. Once all the relevant documents have been received and evaluated, students will be invited in for an entry assessment by phone or via email.
5. Confirmation on whether an offer for your child can take place within 3 working days once the education team has conducted a full review of the assessment.  We may ask for additional supporting documentation to support the admission.
6. The Admissions department will send out offer letters to successful applicants.
   *Note: A request for a formal meeting with the parent and child can be made before completing the admission process.

7. If a seat is unavailable, your child’s application will be placed on a waiting list until a seat becomes available.
   
   

1. Al Diyafah High School

Al Diyafah High School LLC, established in September 1982, has evolved significantly, relocating to a new campus in 2001 to accommodate the growing student population, now boasting over 1,700 students from diverse backgrounds. The school offers a comprehensive range of subjects in Science, Commerce, and Humanities streams, with a primary focus on nurturing competent, caring, and confident students through holistic education.

Their mission is to create a caring and enlightened environment that fosters creative thinking, courage, and a positive attitude, aiming to unlock the highest potential in every student's mind, spirit, and body. Al Diyafah High School LLC envisions a learning community where motivated staff and students engage in best teaching practices using technology extensively, encouraging critical thinking, curiosity, and responsible global citizenship.

Average Fee: AED 14,000 

Actual Fee 2023-2024: AED 10,880 - 23,110

Location: Al Qusais

Website: https://www.diyafah.com/

*Entry Placement Test is taken

Admission Process:

1. Complete the online Application form.
2. Shortlisted students will receive the pre-admission login credentials (this will be sent to the registered mobile number). Using this, you are requested to login and fill in all the required information and upload the necessary documents.
3. Students for Years 12 & 13 will be required to attend an interview. Candidates may have to appear for entrance tests in case they have not studied in a school offering the British Curriculum (only for AS Level).
4. All shortlisted students from FS to Year 13 will be required to pay an assessment fee of AED 500/- (including VAT) at least 3 days before the assessment date. This fee should be paid online through the registration portal.
5. If your child is accepted into the school, you will receive an offer for a place from the Admissions Team and you must respond within 7 days to secure the place.
6. Shortlisted students will be required to upload documents.
7. Upon admission confirmation, an Admission & Registration fee of AED 1000/- (non-refundable/non-adjustable) and 10% of the school fee will be charged which has to be paid via bank transfer. Admission is confirmed only on payment of the school fees.

Summary of 10 Affordable IGCSE Schools in Dubai 2024:

Conclusion

As illustrated, Dubai IGCSE schools follow the British curriculum and are the top choice for many expats as well as parents who want their children to hold a recognized degree that is accepted all over the world. 

Finding cheap options in private IGCSE schooling is possible. We hope this guide was helpful in shortlisting affordable international schools in Dubai!

FAQs

Q. What are the fees for IGCSE schools in Dubai? 

The fees for IGCSE schools in Dubai vary widely, depending on the school's facilities and offerings, typically ranging from affordable to premium levels. Our list shows schools with fees running from AED 6,465 to AED 36,570 annually.

Q. Are there any affordable British schools in Dubai? 

Yes, Dubai hosts a range of affordable British schools, offering quality education that aligns with the UK curriculum at competitive fees.